Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely love this Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta! It’s a delightful fusion of creamy textures and healthy ingredients, making for a comforting yet nourishing dish. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of how easy it is to incorporate wholesome lentils and vibrant spinach into our meals. The pasta becomes perfectly coated in a rich, velvety sauce, and it comes together in under 30 minutes! This is the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners special without demanding too much of your time.
When I first experimented with combining lentils and spinach, I never imagined the dish would turn out so delicious! The creaminess is achieved without heavy cream, just using a blend of cashews and nutritional yeast. It adds a depth of flavor that's simply irresistible. Not only does it taste amazing, but it's also packed with protein and iron, making it a fantastic option for a meat-free dinner.
Aside from being nutritious, I find this pasta dish to be extremely versatile. You can add in seasonal vegetables or switch out the lentils for chickpeas if you prefer. Each time I make it, I adapt based on what I have at home, and it always impresses my friends and family!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that satisfies without heavy cream
- Nutritious blend of lentils and spinach for a healthy boost
- Quick to prepare—ready in 30 minutes!
Understanding the Ingredients
The star ingredients in this Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta are the lentils and cashews. Lentils not only provide a hearty texture but are also a great source of protein and fiber, making this dish quite filling. I recommend using green or brown lentils as they hold their shape better during cooking. If you’re in a pinch, canned lentils can be a quick alternative—just drain and rinse them before use to reduce sodium content.
Cashews serve as the base for the creamy sauce and must be soaked to achieve the desired texture. Soaking them for at least four hours softens their structure, allowing for a smooth blend. If you're short on time, a quick soak in hot water for 30 minutes can also work, although it may not be as creamy. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy, so don't skip it—it's essential for that rich taste!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta
When cooking the pasta, salt the water generously; it should taste like the sea. This not only adds flavor but helps prevent the pasta from becoming bland. Be cautious not to overcook your pasta; aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce later. Keep an eye on the timing, typically around 8-10 minutes for whole wheat varieties. Reserve that pasta water, as it’s a great tool for adjusting the sauce's consistency later.
To ensure the spinach maintains its vibrant green color, add it to the pot only as the pasta is finishing up. Cooking it just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes, helps preserve its nutrients and makes for a more visually appealing dish. Using a lid can trap steam and hasten the wilting process without overcooking the spinach.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta Ingredients
- 250g pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free)
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
- 1/2 cup cashews (soaked in water for 4 hours)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
Mix and match ingredients based on your preferences!
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
While the pasta cooks, blend the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic, and a pinch of salt in a food processor until creamy. You may need to add a little water to achieve a smooth consistency.
Combine Everything
In the same pot used for pasta, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the spinach, cooking until wilted. Add in the cooked lentils and the creamy sauce, mixing thoroughly.
Serve
Toss the drained pasta into the pot and combine everything. If the dish is too thick, add the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess. Finish with lemon juice if desired, and serve immediately.
Enjoy your nutritious meal!
Pro Tips
- For an extra protein boost, feel free to add grilled chicken or tofu. This recipe is also fantastic for meal prep, as the flavors deepen when reheated.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This dish can be prepped ahead of time, making weeknight dinners even simpler. You can cook and store the lentils and pasta separately in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, combine them in a saucepan and heat, adding the creamy sauce and spinach towards the end. This minimizes cooking time and keeps your ingredients fresh.
For those looking to meal prep, I recommend storing the creamy sauce separately. It keeps well in the fridge for about a week and can also be frozen for up to two months. Just remember to let it thaw completely before reheating for best results, and you may need to add a splash of water to loosen it up again.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta with a light sprinkle of additional nutritional yeast on top for an extra cheesy flavor. A side of roasted vegetables or a mixed greens salad can complement the meal beautifully, adding freshness and crunch. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes before serving to give it a spicy kick.
For a variation, try adding other vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to the spinach; they bring depth and additional flavors to the dish. If you enjoy more protein, consider tossing in some grilled chicken or chickpeas, making this meal even more satisfying and nutritious!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta you prefer, whether it's gluten-free, whole wheat, or even vegetable-based.
→ Is there a substitute for cashews?
Yes! You can use silken tofu or sunflower seeds if you need a nut-free option.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta dish. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and consume it within 2 months for the best quality.
Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta
I absolutely love this Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta! It’s a delightful fusion of creamy textures and healthy ingredients, making for a comforting yet nourishing dish. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of how easy it is to incorporate wholesome lentils and vibrant spinach into our meals. The pasta becomes perfectly coated in a rich, velvety sauce, and it comes together in under 30 minutes! This is the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners special without demanding too much of your time.
Created by: Ivy Richardson
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Creamy Spinach Lentil Pasta Ingredients
- 250g pasta (whole wheat or gluten-free)
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
- 1/2 cup cashews (soaked in water for 4 hours)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
While the pasta cooks, blend the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic, and a pinch of salt in a food processor until creamy. You may need to add a little water to achieve a smooth consistency.
In the same pot used for pasta, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the spinach, cooking until wilted. Add in the cooked lentils and the creamy sauce, mixing thoroughly.
Toss the drained pasta into the pot and combine everything. If the dish is too thick, add the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess. Finish with lemon juice if desired, and serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For an extra protein boost, feel free to add grilled chicken or tofu. This recipe is also fantastic for meal prep, as the flavors deepen when reheated.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 16g